Ask a rep your transfer questions

Q: How do I begin to search for a transfer college that’s right for me?

A: The first thing to do when preparing to search for a transfer college is to get organized.
Purchase several folders to keep all of the letters, brochures and other literature you will receive from colleges and universities.
Select a place to keep these materials, or purchase an inexpensive crate in order to keep all materials in one place.
Purchase a notebook with several dividers so that you can record information about each school that you want to remember. This can be information you find on the Internet, in discussions with admissions counselors or notes from a campus visit.

Now that you are organized, it is time to begin your wish list. Your list should contain everything you are looking for in a transfer college or university. Self-reflection is one of the most important parts of the search process. Here are some questions or topics that will guide you in preparing your list.
Location. Do you want to attend a college or university out of state or one that is closer to your hometown?
Cost. When considering cost, consider whether you wish to attend a public or private university. Don’t forget that there are several scholarships available for transfer students.
Opportunities. What do you want to major in? Do you want to play sports or participate in a particular organization or club? Do you want to get involved in research projects with professors? Do you wish to take advantage of study abroad programs?

Write down your thoughts as you answer these questions and ponder these topics. You might want to set up a chart so that you can refer back to each topic as you search for the college or university that is right for you.

How do you find out what colleges match your information gained in that reflection exercise?

Seek the advice of others. Family members, your current academic advisor and leaders in the community are great resources. Talk with your transfer counselor about what you are looking for in a university. Counselors meet with university recruiters often and can give you a few suggestions. Ask alumni of schools in which you’re interested about their experiences there.

Search the Internet. There is a wealth of information on the World Wide Web. This is a terrific site to help you search for colleges that fit your needs. Your counselor can suggest other college search sites.

Contact schools that match your needs. Request to be on the mailing lists of each college or university you are interested in. Set up one e-mail account you use for admissions counselors to contact you. Stick with one e-mail address throughout your college search. Visit the Web site of each college that makes your list. Take notes and record your findings in your notebook as you search the site.

As you apply these suggestions, you will narrow down your list of potential colleges. You should seriously investigate three to five transfer colleges to select the best one that fits your needs.

The search process is fun, scary, enlightening and beneficial. But you’re well on your way!

Monique G. Cossich is director of admissions at Angelo State University in San Angelo, Texas.

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